Tax-Free Childcare cost calculator

Estimate the government top-up on an eligible child’s childcare bill for one three-month period.

Before you start: Use this for one eligible child and one three-month period with an approved provider. The cap is £500, or £1,000 for an eligible disabled child. Check working-hours, income, age, funded-hours and other benefit rules separately. Costs can vary through the year, so one quarter may not represent the whole year.

Enter your figures

Your calculation

Estimated top-up available for this bill£500.00
Calculation overview
Estimated top-up available for this bill£500.00
Your share of the bill£2,000.00
Period cap£500.00

Check your result

Results update as you type. Check the figures against your records and read the limits above. The calculator cannot tell you whether you qualify for a tax relief or complete a tax return for you.

Official guidance

Read the rules for this calculation. Source checked 23 October 2026. Amounts are in pounds. Rates are for 2026/27 unless the page gives a different date.